The Government wishes to notify the general public that yesterday, at about 4 p.m., an Ukrainian Ship MV FAINA, registered in Belize, with cargo meant for the Kenyan Military, was hijacked off the Somali Coast by Pirates. The cargo in the ship includes military hardware such as tanks and an assortment of spare parts for use by different branches of the Kenyan Military.

The Government is in contact with International Maritime Agencies and other security partners in an endeavour to secure the ship and cargo. However, it should be noted that because the ship had not yet docked at Mombasa, the responsibility of the insured cargo rests with the shipper.

The Government is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary.


Dr. Alfred N. Mutua
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY &
GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON

September 26, 2008

17:00 Hrs.